Where possible I will always try to support local businesses, especially when it comes to gifts, homeware and unique bits and bobs that make a house feel like a home. While shopping locally can’t always be done, when I can, I love exploring the charming and unique lifestyle shops that the North East has to offer. You can often pick up different and unique gifts that aren’t the norm, or that have a local theme to them.

The list features some of my personal favourites, and they offer everything from bespoke furniture to handcrafted jewellery, unique home décor, and thoughtful gifts. Some of them stock brands you might recognise, and they range from Newcastle and the coast to further afield across Northumberland. Some of them even started as online boutiques that did so well they got their own premises. Here’s a roundup of 12 must-visit shops where you can discover beautiful pieces while supporting makers, creators, and small businesses across the region.

Wild At Heart, Tynemouth

Find Wild At Heart on Percy Park Road in Tynemouth, a shop that offers a carefully curated selection of homeware, cards, and gifts. I only discovered last year that they have an upstairs too, and it’s filled with some gorgeous items. They specialise in beautiful homeware pieces from brands like Light & Living, and they always update their displays and collections seasonally with decor and gifts. I enjoy visiting during Autumn especially, and in the run up to Christmas, and the owner is lovely I always have a good chat with her. A real treasure trove of décor and one off finds, pay them a visit if you’re at the coast.

Bellwoods, Whitley Bay

Bellwoods in Whitley Bay is in a great spot on Park View, a street that is thriving at the moment with great shops and restaurants. You can’t miss the bright coral shopfront and beautiful displays. Bellwoods originally started online, but I much prefer visiting in person for a browse because there’s just so much to take in. The shop is gorgeous and has sections on artwork, candles, books, cards and home décor. They also host pop-ups from other local brands, so you can discover even more independent makers. Pop in before or after a coffee in one of the many cafes nearby.

Nucasa, Jesmond

I love Nucasa and although I feel like I’m saying everywhere stocks the same sort of things, I promise they all offer different variations. Some of the artwork in Nucasa is amazing, and there is a lot of it to rummage through. They also have a great selection of books, funny cards, and at Christmas the gift sets are beautiful. As well as a lifestyle store, Nucasa is a café, and they serve fabulous hot chocolate. Have a browse and a coffee all in the same place. You could also visit the florist just along the street too. Find them on Brentwood Avenue.

Wildflower, Ouseburn

Wildflower is a plant lover’s dream. This delightful shop in Ouseburn is filled with indoor plants, baskets, pots, and planters that will add a green touch to any space at home. The shelves are literally brimming with unique items, there’s some candles and other bits and bobs in here too. If you’re visiting Ouseburn make sure you stop by.

Bradley Gardens, Wylam

For a true destination shopping experience, head to Bradley Gardens in Wylam. Set in the old restored Victorian walled garden, this location is more than just a shop, you can enjoy the gardens and on site Glasshouse cafe while you’re there. The greenhouse has more outdoorsy type items on offer, including a dog section, a Barbour selection and some dried flowers. 

The lifestyle showroom and shop stock brands like Neptune, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship. Once you’ve explored their collection, enjoy breakfast or lunch in the restaurant, which is perfect for a relaxing weekend outing. Dogs are welcome in the outside areas but not inside. 

Sora Studio, Ouseburn

You can never have enough lifestyle shops on your radar, and the newest one in Newcastle is a vibe. I recently visited Sora Studio in Ouseburn after hearing about their latest Raw Prints collectiong of the Lake District – they’re stunning and capture some of my favourite spots from years of family holidays over there. I picked up two prints and a lovely candle. 

Sora Studio is a great addition to Lime Street, offering a range of beautiful jewellery, greeting cards, and other girly gifts and prints. One of the highlights is the permanent jewellery offered by Sopharia Jewellery. Now you can get your forever jewellery right at Sora Studio with bracelets starting at £35, and there is the option for anklets and necklaces as well. It’s a canny spot to explore, and the best part? Pups are welcome!

Have a look at the Sora Studio Instagram here.

The Find, Ouseburn

Just next door to Sora Studio is The Find, and if you’re looking to find one-of-a-kind pieces, this is the spot to go to. It’s a luxury vintage homeware store that celebrates quality, craftsmanship, and supports other local businesses. There’s a big selection of vintage mid-century modern furniture, glassware, ceramics, and lighting. They also partner with 25 local artists and makers, offering beautifully crafted items you won’t find anywhere else, from hand-bound books to bespoke candles, all displayed in a light, airy space.

Visit The Find website here.

Flaura Rose in Ouseburn

If you’re looking for a vibrant, one-of-a-kind shopping experience, Flaura Rose in Ouseburn is the place to be. Known for its striking hot pink exterior, this quirky shop is a treasure trove of eclectic finds that range from gifts and home décor to fashion accessories. While you may have spotted Flaura Rose at local markets, their permanent shop in Ouseburn offers an even more immersive experience, packed with everything from denim jackets and candles to prints, mirrors, plants, and cushions. 

Inside this “pink palace,” you’ll discover a curated selection of playful and unique items that are perfect for gifts or adding a statement piece to your home or bedroom. Whether you’re after some bold jewellery, funky sunglasses, or even notebooks with a twist, Flaura Rose has something you won’t find elsewhere. It’s the perfect spot for finding something that truly stands out, while supporting a local business that brings flair and creativity to the heart of Ouseburn.

Merchant No. 1, Monkseaton

Merchant No. 1 in Monkseaton is a homeware lifestyle store that specialises in upholstery. Their selection of fabrics and patterns is perfect for those looking to revamp furniture or add a pop of colour to their home – think deep turquoise, bright pink and tropical prints. Beyond upholstery, the shop offers a lovely selection of home accessories, from cushions to quirky signs. 

The Northumbrian Hamper, Seahouses

Located in the coastal town of Seahouses, The Northumbrian Hamper is packed with an array of gifts, homeware, and food items, all sourced from local makers. It’s a small shop but of all lifestyle shops in the North East, it probably has the biggest variety of things on offer it is full to the rafters. If you ever stay in one of the holiday cottages or air bnbs up there you’re likely to get welcome gifts from this very shop and that’s exactly how I came across it a couple of years ago.

From handmade soaps to delicious treats, this shop is a celebration of everything Northumberland has to offer. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique gift or take home a little piece of the region’s charm. After shopping, enjoy a stroll along the Seahouses harbour and take in the stunning coastal views with some fish n chips – just pop back for your local ice cream afterwards.

Jane & Harry’s, Alnmouth

Tucked away next to the Red Lion beer garden in one of the most picturesque Northumberland villages, Jane & Harry’s is a quaint shop in Alnmouth that offers a wide range of gifts and home décor items. The store stocks one of my favourite brands, Nkuku, known for its ethically made and beautifully designed products. Jane & Harry’s is a great place to browse for unique gifts or something special for your home.

Visit their website here.

The Dyvels Home, Corbridge

One of my favourite lifestyle shops in the North East at Christmas time, The Dyvels Home in Corbridge is a stunning homeware shop and showroom, offering an elegant mix of furniture, décor, and accessories. The store’s seasonal displays, especially around Christmas, are worth a visit alone, but regardless of the time of year, you’ll find something to fall in love with. I can never visit without coming away with something. After your shopping, explore the historic town of Corbridge, known for its charming streets and independent shops.

Take a look at their website here.

Overall we are spoiled for choice really for lifestyle shops in the North East, and it’s even better that each one supports local brands, makers, and creators. I’ve purchased from all of the above at some point, and would encourage you to have a browse if you’re in the area.

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